美国留学应该读雅思还是托福

Introduction

美国留学一直是世界各国孩子梦寐以求的事情， 但是，在来到美国之前，需要考虑的一个重要因素是语言能力。 笔者在研究美国留学的申请过程中发现，大多数美国大学和学院都要求学生提供一份英语语言能力成绩。 然而，不同的学校可能会要求不同类型的成绩， 例如，有些学校要求托福（Test of English as a Foreign Language），而其他学校要求雅思（International English Language Testing System）。 因此，一个问题经常被提及：应该读雅思还是托福呢？

This article aims to provide some insight into the differences between the two exams and to help prospective students decide which to take.

解析雅思和托福

The IELTS and TOEFL are both designed to evaluate a non-native speaker's ability to use the English language. However, the structure and format of each exam are quite different.

The IELTS exam assesses the four main language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking; and depending on the level you take, it can be either computerized or paper-based. The test lasts approximately two hours and 45 minutes, and when you take the speaking test, you will be required to speak face-to-face with an examiner.

On the other hand, the TOEFL is administered through a computer-based system, with all four skills being assessed through reading, listening, speaking, and writing sections. The computer-based format assesses your reading, listening, and writing skills and the speaking section involves recording your responses into a microphone.

相似点和不同点

While both exams aim to test your English language skills, there are some similarities and differences between the two.

One similarity between the two exams is that they both assess your ability to use the English language accurately, and both are recognized by thousands of universities worldwide.

However, one of the key differences between the two exams is the format. If you prefer taking paper-based exams, then the IELTS may be a better choice for you, whereas if you are comfortable using a computer, then the TOEFL may be the best option.

Another difference is the scoring system. The IELTS uses a band score system, which ranges from 0 to 9, whereas the TOEFL scores range from 0 to 120.

Furthermore, the speaking section is different in both exams. The IELTS speaking test is conducted face-to-face, with an examiner assessing your speaking ability while the TOEFL speaking section involves recording your responses into a microphone.

雅思和托福的帮助和支持

If you are planning on taking either exam, there is plenty of help and support available to you.

The British Council and IDP Education offer support, preparation materials, and practice tests for the IELTS. Similarly, ETS offers support, resources, and practice exams for the TOEFL.

It is advisable to take advantage of these resources to familiarize yourself with the exam structure and to practice your language skills.

申请大学的要求

Before deciding which exam to take, it is important to check with the universities or colleges that you are interested in attending, to see which exam they require.

While many institutions accept both exams, some may only require one specific test, so it is crucial to determine which exam they require before beginning the application process, to avoid any unnecessary difficulties.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision of whether to take the IELTS or TOEFL exam largely depends on your personal preferences, such as format, location, and familiarity with the test-taking process.

While the two exams test your English language ability, they do so in different ways, and therefore it is important to research the exam requirements of each university or college that you apply to, in order to determine which exam is suitable for you.

Lastly, it is important to utilize the resources available to you and approach the exam with a positive attitude, as this can make a difference in your exam results.